Provisions: What to read, buy or check out for travel or recreation

BUY

Backpacker magazine recently anointed the Exped 20 “best all around” among 2014 daypacks tested. It’s an old-school pack, a nylon top-loader with a foam (detachable) hip belt and two polyester side pockets that expand to hold water bottles or gear. Backpacker called it “armadillo tough.” It weighs 1 pound, 9 ounces.

Explore where you live.

READ

▪ ‘Dressing up for Travel’ essay

Tired of sitting next to a guy on a long flight who’s wearing a bro tank and flip flops? So is J. Bryan Lowder, writing in Slate: “Among the cavalcade of pajama pants, tracksuits, nightgowns, painting rags, and ill-fitting sweatshirts that one encounters in the world’s terminals and stations these days, the competently dressed individual stands apart as a beacon of civilized life, an island of class amid a swamp of schlumps. By dressing myself as a decent human being who is aware that he is in public, I like to think I am performing a small act of resistance against the increasingly slobbish status quo.”

THE LIST

Women’s Adventure Magazine had writer Megan Hettwer scope out the safest countries for women to visit. We highlight the first five:

1. Ireland: “The locals are incredibly friendly, and a woman traveling on her own isn’t really seen as all that strange. It’s easy to head down to the local pub, grab a pint, and end the night with some newfound friends. If you’re a native English speaker, things are even easier.”

2. Costa Rica: “Costa Rica is a great place to get a taste of the region. As a country with no standing army, it tends to be a friendly place. ... The locals are warm and welcoming, and will help you find your way around if your Spanish is a bit lackluster.”

3. Australia: “Ease of communication for English speakers makes it a great option.”

4. Greece: “The men can be a little ‘macho’ here, but don’t let that deter you. Heck, you might not even experience any unsavory behavior from the fellows.”

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